I am terrified of shots. Last time I went, the nurse had
to hold me down. I’m due for an appointment and I’m already getting anxious.
What should I do?

You know it’s coming—the annual physical—but does that make
it any easier to get through? No! Like it or not, yearly check-ups usually come
with a round of shots to keep us in tip-top shape. If you’re terrified of
needles, you’re definitely in good company. But that doesn’t mean you should
let your fear run unchecked.

To keep stress levels low before you head to the doctor’s
office, try some deep breathing exercises and positive affirmations. Telling
yourself that you need to do this to stay healthy, and that really, it won’t
hurt much at all, will help you ease the anxiety.

While you’re sitting in the waiting room, keep breathing.
Instead of focusing on the butterflies in your stomach, distract yourself with
an engrossing book, your favorite playlist or a convo with your mom. And when
the nurse is dabbing your arm with an alcohol swab, keep up that breathing and
focus on how you’re not feeling any pain at all, really. Keep telling yourself
it will be okay and that you can get through it and you will, I promise.

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